Top Nintendo DS Games: 65 Must-Play Titles According to VideoLamer's Definitive List

The Nintendo DS, introduced by Nintendo in 2004, redefined handheld gaming with its innovative dual-screen design and extensive game catalog.

Over the years, the DS has become a hallmark of portable gaming, boasting over 154 million units sold globally and a library rich with diverse, genre-defining experiences.

In a notable moment within the history of handheld competition, VideoLamer published a comprehensive list featuring 65 essential reasons to own a Nintendo DS, directly responding to PSP Fanboy's earlier compilation of 60 reasons for the PlayStation Portable (PSP). VideoLamer’s list primarily highlights the standout titles that have solidified the Nintendo DS’s reputation as a must-own platform for dedicated gamers.

The selection includes undeniable classics, innovative adventures, and memorable cult hits.

While some entries, such as "Super Princess Peach," have received mixed critical reception for their gameplay and design choices, the inclusion of newer, less mainstream experiences—like "Etrian Odyssey"—showcases the system's capacity for diverse and niche titles that have garnered devoted fanbases. The list spans a wide spectrum of genres, ranging from puzzle and platforming to role-playing and adventure.

Games such as "The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass," "New Super Mario Bros.," and "Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney" are recognized for their critical and commercial successes, while titles like "Etrian Odyssey" offer challenging, dungeon-crawling gameplay that appeals to a dedicated segment of RPG enthusiasts.

According to VideoLamer, this broad selection underscores the Nintendo DS’s ability to cater to both mainstream audiences and gamers seeking unique, lesser-known experiences. VideoLamer’s approach goes beyond mere nostalgia, drawing attention to the ongoing relevance of the DS library in gaming discussions.

The DS remains a celebrated platform thanks to its robust eShop back catalog (when available) and continued community enthusiasm.

As the DS gradually transitions into legacy status, lists such as this serve as invaluable resources for collectors, newcomers, and longtime fans looking to revisit or discover the system’s highlights. Readers are encouraged to explore VideoLamer’s definitive list to see which timeless classics and hidden gems made the cut.

Whether revisiting beloved adventures or unearthing underappreciated titles, the legacy of the Nintendo DS endures as a testament to Nintendo’s innovation and the enduring creativity of its developers.

For those with thoughts on overlooked gems or inclusions that missed the mark, the conversation around the best DS games is far from over. With its dynamic software lineup and history of fostering both commercial hits and cult classics, the Nintendo DS remains one of Nintendo’s most successful handhelds.

VideoLamer’s 65-game collection provides an insightful look into the system’s impact and lasting appeal across the industry.

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